Wang Yi says China, Italy withstood test of COVID-19 pandemic

02:17

China's State Councilor andForeign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday said the relations between China and Italy have withstood the test of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wang made the remark at a press briefing in Rome with Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio after meetings.

Wang said China's support to Italy during the pandemic had nothing to do with politics and there was no self-interest involved.

Speaking to reporters, Di Maio called China "an indispensable partner" in the world and vowed to enhance cooperation with China on the fight against COVID-19 and beyond in future.

Wang too reaffirmed China's willingness to beef up cooperation with Italy.

Wang is currently on a trip to five European countries, with Italy being his first stop. It's his first overseas visit since the COVID-19 pandemic.

China's FM Wang Yi visits five European countries from Aug. 25 to Sept. 1, first overseas trip since COVID-19